Light and dependable protection from the elements.

Our list of expectations for a wet-weather race jacket look something like this: It must provide dependable protection from the elements, it needs to be light on the scale and soft-to-the-touch, and it absolutely must breathe exceptionally. However, above all else, it has to conform to the body with a precise fit. Not surprisingly, when we review the Louis Garneau Course Race Jacket, we see that it not only meets, but exceeds our high expectations. And the fact that it does so for an entirely reasonable price is the proverbial icing on the cake.

Garneau's Course Race Jacket caters to the industry's appetite for softer, more compliant, and waterproof fabrics. Of course, such fabrics won't provide the Fort Knox-like protection of hard shell fabrics, but most riders are willing to accept a little permeability for a better fit and breathability. After all, wet is wet, whether the offending moisture comes from the outside or inside. So, to provide an ideal blend of exterior weatherproofing and interior moisture management, Garneau constructed the Course Jacket out of its Extenz fabric—a 2.5-layer knit with a polyurethane membrane and Durable Water Repellant (DWR) exterior coating. And to further protect the interior from water, Garneau fully-sealed the jacket's seams.

The stretchy'ness of the Extenz fabric allowed Garneau's designers to give the Course Race a body-contouring, aerodynamic fit. Additionally, the elbows have been articulated to eliminate any uncomfortable pinching or pulling when you reach for the handlebars. A full-length zipper with an interior flap keeps wind from sneaking through when you're zipped up, and it also allows for unlimited ventilation. There are two zippered pockets—one in the rear and a small pocket on the sleeve. A silicone gripper at the hem keeps the jacket from riding up when you're in the drops, and reflective accents throughout the jacket increase your visibility to motorists in low-light conditions.

A winter jacket that extends your cycling season

Wind- and water-resistant membrane defends against weather

Batten down the hatches with fully sealed seams

Slim, race-worthy fit eliminates flapping material

Zippered pockets for secure storage of ride essentials

Silicone grip and reflective accents help keep the jacket in place and you visible

View

Perfect wind/rain cover for colder days

Familiarity: I've used it several times

Fit: True to size

Size Bought: Medium

I bought it for these fall days when one never knows what to wear. This jacket provides 100% protection from wind, and I wear it with base layer, short jersey and arm wormers down to 40 degree and it works perfectly well. I love the little arm pocket, it is extremely lightweight and can fold into sandwich-size ziplock bag. It is a great product and I would buy it again.

Comment on Mackenzie Martin's comment:

Average ride time is based on Strava activity over the last 3 months. Give your reviews credibility by connecting your account.

Great fit, light-weight, does the job

Familiarity: I've put it through the wringer

Fit: Runs small

Size Bought: Small

I'm 5 feet 6 inches and fluctuate between 120 and 125 pounds. I'm small in stature; upper body length is proportionate to lower body. I ordered a Small which fit me perfectly. It is close-fitting but not too race-fit to allow some breathability. Designed for chilly to cold rides, anything above 60 degree Fahrenheit would make this jacket too warm. I usually wear it during night group rides where temperatures can reach 40 degrees. The reflectors, unlike many I have seen before in other clothing, has lasted quite long despite numerous washes of up to two times a week over the year that I owned it. The rear zipper pocket is a great addition.

Comment on SOPHANA H.'s review:

Cold weather shell

Familiarity: I've put it through the wringer

Fit: True to size

Size Bought: medium

Absolutely love this jacket. I'm 5'11" 185lbs and wear a medium in this product. Its is a great fit in the trunk and the arms allow for being in the drops without pulling on the rest of the jacket. I will use this jacket as a windshell over baselayer and jersey in the 30-40 degree range, just a base layer in the 40-50 degree range and over only a jersey in 50+. I use it as a rain shell up through the 60's. Over 70 degrees and rain I do not use a jacket. Great price. The jacket does stretch a bit over time so I expect to buy another one next year and this one to the mountain bike kit. Which is ok because it is a great price point.

Comment on Ken B.'s review:

Terrific value and fit

Familiarity: I've used it several times

Fit: True to size

Purchased this and the Sportful Fiandre light no rain jacket at the same time to compare. Eliminating flapping was one of my key goals. Both jackets are form fitting. I expected to like the Sportful better as I am a registered Italophile. But, The Fiandre was so tight that I couldn't see pulling it out of a jersey pocket and putting it on as I rode. The Course jacket is packable but just one notch more substantial blocking wind and cold than an ultra light "emergency" packable jacket. Returning the Fiandre; the quality and look are superb but the Course matches my needs more closely. I am 6'2" and 168 and like things tight and short; the Course jacket suited those preferences while still being roomy enough to grapple on and off over 2 layers underneath.

Comment on Logan S.'s comment:

Sorry, I don't get in here very often. Just saw your question. I'm wearing a medium. My impression is the "Course" line is more of a race fit. Yes, I still like it. In addition to being functional, it's pretty good looking.